Tilted PV Module Frame for Non-Penetrating Rooftop Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photovoltaic module installations on commercial rooftops are time-consuming, require significant upfront planning, and incur high costs due to the need for numerous auxiliary components and complex logistics, especially when tilting modules to maximize sunlight exposure and withstand wind forces without penetrating the rooftop.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic module with a frame that encases the laminate, allowing for factory assembly into a unitary structure with a tilted orientation, minimizing the need for on-site assembly and auxiliary components, and enabling non-penetrating installation with a simplified kit form that includes a support face for optimal sunlight collection and wind resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If PV modules are tilted relative to the rooftop to maximize sunlight collection, then energy collection efficiency is improved, but wind resistance becomes more difficult to maintain without penetrating the rooftop
Solution Approach 1:
The PV module system is divided into separate functional components: the PV module itself, the mounting assembly with ballast, and the wind deflector. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the module for energy collection, the mounting assembly for stability and tilt, and the wind deflector for aerodynamic protection.
Solution Approach 2:
A wind deflector is introduced as an intermediary component between the tilted PV module and the wind flow. This mediator redirects wind forces away from the module, reducing uplift and lateral loads without requiring penetration of the rooftop or complex anchoring systems.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If non-penetrating installation method is used to avoid rooftop damage, then rooftop integrity is preserved, but additional components like ballast and wind deflectors are required
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly integrates multiple functions into a single structure: it provides the tilt angle for optimal sunlight collection, incorporates ballast for weight and stability, and includes attachment points for the wind deflector. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed compared to traditional non-penetrating systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly is designed as a universal platform that can be applied to various PV module sizes and rooftop types without penetration. It simultaneously achieves tilting, stabilization through ballast, and provides mounting infrastructure for wind deflectors, making it a multi-functional solution.
3Reliability
If conventional installation procedures are used with multiple auxiliary components, then module security is ensured, but installation time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The PV module is pre-assembled with the mounting assembly, ballast, and wind deflector at the factory before shipping to the installation site. This preliminary assembly ensures proper configuration and security requirements are met during manufacturing under controlled conditions, eliminating the need for complex on-site assembly of multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballast is designed to be self-positioning and self-retaining on the mounting assembly, requiring minimal adjustment during installation. The integrated design allows the system to largely install itself with simple placement and connection actions, reducing labor requirements while maintaining security.
4Adaptability or versatility
If PV modules are shipped and installed as separate components, then flexibility in configuration is improved, but shipping costs and handling complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The PV module is nested within or alongside the mounting assembly in a compact configuration for shipping. The ballast and wind deflector are integrated or attached in a space-efficient manner, allowing all components to be transported together as a single unit rather than as separate bulky items, reducing shipping volume and handling complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the installation process, reduces labor and planning complexity, lowers shipping and handling costs, and ensures efficient energy collection while maintaining a robust and cost-effective installation method for commercial rooftops.
Implementation Method 1
solar photovoltaic systems (or simply 'photovoltaic systems') employ solar panels made of silicon or other materials (e.g., III-V cells such as GaAs) to convert sunlight into electricity
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic (PV) module including a PV device and a frame, The PV device has a PV laminate defining a perimeter and a major plane. The frame is assembled to and encases the laminate perimeter, and includes leading, trailing, and side frame members, and an arm that forms a support face opposite the laminate. The support face is adapted for placement against a horizontal installation surface, to support and orient the laminate in a non-parallel or tilted arrangement. Upon final assembly, the laminate and the frame combine to define a unitary structure. The frame can orient the laminate at an angle in the range of 3°-7° from horizontal, and can be entirely formed of a polymeric material. Optionally, the arm incorporates integral feature(s) that facilitate interconnection with corresponding features of a second, identically formed PV module.